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R. B. Woodward: A Larger-than-Life Chemistry Rock Star
Dr. Jeffrey I. Seeman,
Corresponding Author
Dr. Jeffrey I. Seeman
Department of Chemistry, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA, 23173 USA
Search for more papers by this authorDr. Jeffrey I. Seeman,
Corresponding Author
Dr. Jeffrey I. Seeman
Department of Chemistry, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA, 23173 USA
Search for more papers by this authorAbstract
To mark the 100th birthday of R. B. Woodward (April 10, 1917–July 8, 1979), a discussion and analysis of Woodward's persona is given. The fundamental theme is that “Woodward experienced his own exceptionality,” as described by Albert Eschenmoser, Woodward's partner in the vitamin B12 project. Woodward's rock star personality is explored and discussed as one of his legacies in addition to his scientific achievements. Woodward presented himself to his students, colleagues, and fellow chemists with an aura of nobility and romanticism.
Conflict of interest
The author declare no conflict of interest.
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